REPORT: Toronto Blue Jays to Include Alek Manoah in Starting Rotation

Jon Morosi of MLB.com reports that the Toronto Blue Jays are set to include the polarizing pitcher Alek Manoah in their starting rotation.

According to Morosi, despite inquiries from other teams about Manoah’s availability via trade, sources indicate that the Blue Jays have no intention of trading him. It is noted that Manoah has undergone a productive offseason of workouts and is expected to secure a spot in the Jays’ rotation.

Teams have asked the Blue Jays about Alek Manoah’s availability via trade, but sources say the Jays are telling clubs they have no plans to move him.

I’m told Manoah has had a very good offseason of workouts. He’s expected to be in the Jays’ rotation. @MLBNetwork

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) February 1, 2024

Despite a challenging 2023 season, during which he posted a 3-9 record with a 5.87 ERA and faced multiple demotions to the minor leagues, Manoah’s youth and contractual control through 2027 make him a valuable asset for Toronto. In 2022, he enjoyed considerable success, tallying a 16-7 record with a 2.24 ERA, earning an All-Star nod and finishing third in the American League Cy Young voting.

Several factors come into play regarding Manoah’s role within the Blue Jays:

1) The team currently boasts an established starting rotation, featuring Kevin Gausman, Chris Bassitt, Yusei Kikuchi, and Jose Berrios. With Manoah no longer expected to be the ace, he may flourish in a less pressured fifth starter position. Additionally, the recent acquisition of Yariel Rodriguez provides further depth for the team.

2) It’s plausible that Toronto’s apparent commitment to Manoah could be a strategic move. Conceivably, the team may still entertain trade offers for Manoah but is refraining from disclosing their intentions to leverage higher value from potential suitors.